CCTV released of shopkeeper being stabbed

Police have released footage of two men who attacked a shopkeeper in west London with a knife.

The off-licence worker, aged in his 40s, was behind the counter when one of the men walked round and said "open the till" before stabbing him repeatedly in High Street, Whitton, on the edge of Twickenham.

The second suspect could be seen throwing things at the victim and pulling off his turban during the incident which took place at around 10pm on 23 December last year.

The shopkeeper managed to fight off the knifeman before both suspects ran away in the direction of Percy Road.

Image:A man who carried out a robbery of an off-licence in Twickenham

Metropolitan Police officers and the London Ambulance Service attended and found the victim suffering from stab injuries.

He was taken to a west London hospital and has since been discharged and continues to recover from his injuries.

The suspects' faces were covered by hoods.

The first suspect is described as a black male, about 5ft 11ins tall, wearing a dark hooded coat, jeans, black trainers and blue and grey gloves.

The second suspect is described as a white male, about 5ft 11ins, wearing a dark blue all-weather jacket, a grey tracksuit, black trainers and orange gloves.

Image:A robber flees from a shop in Twickenham after carrying out an attack

Investigating officer Mike Deans, from Kingston and Richmond CID, said: "This was a vicious attack on a man who was simply just doing his job at his place of work, a place where he should feel safe. The attack has understandably left the victim extremely distressed.

"It is through pure luck that the victim did not receive more serious injuries.

"I would appeal to anyone who recognises the two men in the CCTV to contact police as a matter of urgency so we can bring those responsible for this heinous crime to justice."

:: Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call Kingston and Richmond CID on 07881 352 381 or 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.